The debut film ‘Under the Influencer’ explores the intersection of art and mental health through the lens of a queer, biracial protagonist, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity in its cast and crew.
The film “Under the Influencer” has recently made its debut, bringing a fresh perspective to the psychological thriller genre. Directed by Bryn Woznicki and featuring a script co-written by Lauren Neal, the film delves into the complexities of artistic expression and mental health through its protagonist, Lex, played by Neal herself. Lex is portrayed as a queer, biracial data scientist and digital artist who battles a severe anxiety disorder. By day, she is bound to her role as a customer service representative for a dating app; by night, she transforms into the enigmatic AI artist known as Neomy, whose work is facilitated by her need for anonymity.
Central to “Under the Influencer” is the development of a perturbing mentor-protégé dynamic between Lex and the notorious art curator, Andrea Caulfield, portrayed by Erin Matthews. Caulfield’s unorthodox and ethically questionable mentoring techniques hinge on the idea that Lex’s creativity flourishes under stress and duress. Consequently, Caulfield’s manipulations extend to flirtation, undue criticism, and implicit threats regarding Lex’s career, fostering a toxic environment that ultimately exacerbates Lex’s mental health issues. As Lex becomes more aware of these tactics, the narrative evolves into a psychologically charged conflict between the two characters.
“Under the Influencer” distinguishes itself not only through its compelling narrative but also through the diversity of its cast and crew. Significant portions of the team identify as female, non-binary, BIPOC, or LGBTQ+, with figures indicating that 73% of the team are female/non-binary, 55% are BIPOC, and 43% are LGBTQ+. These statistics are even more pronounced in areas of creative and production decision-making, underscoring a commitment to inclusivity.
The film’s depiction of the art world is visually rich, commencing with an AI-animated sequence that captures the audience’s attention with its intricate and controlled chaos. This opening is complemented by a monologue from Lex, reflecting on how art can consume its creator. Despite ongoing debates about AI’s role in the creative process, the opening sequence is notable for its innovative approach, providing insight into the film’s thematic core.
While the film succeeds in delivering a thrilling narrative, some critics have remarked on its overly polished aesthetic. The visual style has been likened to that of a soap opera, suggesting a preference for a grittier, more raw presentation that might be more aligned with the intense subject matter. Nevertheless, the performances offered by the cast, particularly Matthews as the calculating curator, have been praised for their intensity and depth.
“Under the Influencer” was showcased at the 2024 Micheaux Film Festival, indicating its recognition within the independent film circuit. It is seen as a significant project, reflecting the voices of diverse, often underrepresented communities. The film represents a straightforward yet captivating thriller from a queer and female perspective, sure to appeal to enthusiasts of indie cinema seeking fresh narratives and unique viewpoints.
Source: Noah Wire Services